Hot Technology for a Cool School Year

Eschewing the need for hardcover or paperback books, the Kindle features an easy-to-read black and white 6-inch screen, wireless connectivity and long battery life. It can hold thousands of books in a space barely bigger than a single paperback. http://www.amazon.com

Apple iPad 2 - 16GB - $499.00 (other models at varying prices)

The iPad2 continues to define the tablet category, providing a sleek and lightweight touch-screen alternative to a laptop. With Wi-Fi capabilities and access to thousands of apps, this device satisfies every need that a student could have. http://www.apple.com

Audio-Technica Noise-Canceling Headphones - $99.95

These headphones ensure a comfortable fit through foam tips that form to the shape of your ear canal. Noise-canceling technology blocks out unwanted surface noise, whether you're listening to music or need a quiet environment for studying. http://www.audio-technica.com

G-Form Extreme Sleeve for Laptops - $69.95

The G-Form sleeve cradles a laptop to provide a safe haven for traveling (tablet version also available). The flexible surface becomes rigid when struck to protect the contents from damage. http://g-form.com

HP Envy100 e-All-in-One Printer - $199.99

This compact, multi-function printer features a high-resolution touch-screen and customizable applications. Wireless and Web-enabled for sharing with multiple devices, the ePrint function allows students to print from wherever they have access to email. http://www.HP.com

Kensington ClickSafe Keyed Laptop Lock -$49.99

Connected to your laptop's security slot, this tamper-resistant system uses a steel cable looped around an immovable object to remove the risk of theft. The snap-on locking device quickly attaches so no time is lost when you need to go. http://us.kensington.com

Livescribe 4GB Pulse Smartpen - $179.98

Capture hundreds of hours of audio or record the notes you are writing down on the specially equipped paper. A USB connection transfers the contents to a Mac or PC. Contents can be accessed on a smart phone or tablet too. Optional apps, such as a dictionary, are also available. http://www.livescribe.com/en-us/

Monster CleanTouch Pen - $24.95

LCD screens shouldn't be tarnished with fingerprints, dirt or smudges. A quick wipe with the applicator tip removes contaminants as it disinfects. A side-mounted microfiber cloth then wipes the surface clean. http://www.monstercable.com

Pioneer Electronics S-MM301 USB Speakers - $49.00

Only slightly larger than a smartphone, these compact stereo speakers use a USB cable plug into a laptop and draw power. Built-in audio controls and protective metal grills make them easy to carry in a travel bag or backpack. http://www.pioneerelectronics.com

quirky MANTIS LED Task Light - $29.99

Night owls know that pulling an all-nighter without bothering your roommate isn't easy. So leave off the lights and clip MANTIS to your monitor, or stand it up on its legs. 11 LEDs give you all the light you'll need in a shape more UFO than utilitarian. http://www.quirky.com

quirky Pivot PoweR - $29.99

When there aren't enough outlets, call on Pivot Power. This creative power strip gives you six outlets that can each hold a large "brick" plug. And since it's flexible, you can bend and twist to form the shape that best suits the space where you'll be using it. http://www.quirky.com

Verbatim Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard - $104.00

Designed to integrate with an iPhone/iPad, this wireless keyboard includes iTunes media controls and folds in half when not in use. The keyboard also works with other Bluetooth-enabled tablets and smart phones. http://www.verbatim.com

Virgin Mobile MiFi 2200 Mobile Hotspot - $149.99

Connect up to 5 Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the Internet through a 3G cellular connection. A one-touch setup gets the network up and running, while a pay-as-you-go payment plan avoids the need for any contracts. http://www.virginmobileusa.com

Zoom H1 Handy Recorder - $99.00

This pocketsize stereo recorder can accommodate over 50 hours of recording time and runs up to 10 hours on a single "AA" battery. Remove the SD card and transfer the MP3 files to your computer or play them on your mobile or media device. http://www.zoom.co.jp